PRESSING TRIGGERS

We set up in an area of 46x25yards, with a central area six yards wide. Split the players into three teams of five. One team defends, the other two keep possession. The defending team are working on pressing to regain. Three defenders go in and play against the five. The two remaining players for that team screen passes into the other team. If they win, they can score in the mini goal. The two teams of five in possession have to make three passes to transfer the ball into the other half. Conditions on the transfer are a lofted pass and under head height pass.

We run this for three reps of two minutes each.

[1a]

1. Red team in possession

2. Three blue defenders pressing, two remaining blue players stay in central zone

[1b]

1. Red team transfer possession to the yellows in the opposite half of the pitch

2. Blues look to screen passes

[1c]

1. If blues gain possession they can seek to score in the mini goals

TRANSITION REGAINS

We set up on a pitch of 70x45yds, with mini goals positioned on the halfway line. We set up in two teams of eight. Teams are looking to score in the full size goals [2a]. When a team regains in their own half, they look to score in the mini goals which are positioned wide [2b]. They then get a second ball to open up the full pitch and try and score in other half [2c].

We run this for two reps of seven minutes each.

[2a]

1. Reds v blues

2. Both teams looking to score in full size goals at opposite end

[2b]

1. When a team regains possession in their own half, they can look to score in a mini goal on the halfway line

[2c]

1. Coach feeds second ball to team that has just scored, and whole pitch opens up

2. Blues attack full size goal

3. Reds defend

8v8+GKs

We set up on a pitch of 75x45yds for a small-sided game of 8v8, and bring everything together. The focus is still on winning the ball back, with options depending on the area you regain, to score, create, and build [3].   

We run this for three reps of five minutes each.

[3]

1. Reds v blues
2. Usual game rules

coaching points

What are the key things to look out for?

Players will be praised for success in the regain and then retaining the ball. High energy will be applauded, and effort will be noted.

What are the typical mistakes players might make and how do I avoid them?

High intensity drills will often be challenging for certain players who may struggle to make the correct decisions under pressure. They might need some additional coaching or positive reinforcement.